Astros report: Despite recent struggles, Veras retains closer role

The Astros’ bullpen hasn’t been perfect during recent games. Closer Jose Veras gave up a crucial ninth-inning run to Colorado on Tuesday in a 2-1 home loss and allowed a three-run, go-ahead homer to Oakland’s Chris Young on Friday. Factor in that the Astros’ bullpen holds the worst ERA (4.82) in the majors, and the club’s relievers — expected to be a weak point this season — haven’t exceeded projections.

But relievers such as Travis Blackley, Paul Clemens, Jose Cisnero and Wesley Wright have often kept the Astros in games during the last two weeks, with Blackley and Cisnero shining at times. For a club that is 6-7 in its last 13 games, with nine decided by one or two runs, a bullpen that’s at least holding ground has been a big relief.

Veras’ unpredictability remains an issue. But Astros manager Bo Porter said the 32-year-old righthander is still the team’s closer.

“He’s hit some bumps in the road, and I have all the confidence that he’ll make the necessary adjustments that he needs to make to straighten those things out. If we have a lead in the ninth inning, he’s going to get the ball.”

Pena chairman of board game

During veteran Rick Ankiel’s brief run with the Astros, players often played board games inside the locker room before road contests.

After Ankiel was waived, the Astros’ board games quietly disappeared.

The fun was back Wednesday. Chris Carter beat Brandon Barnes in Connect Four, while Carlos Pena happily watched from his locker.

With a standard card game and TV watching going on in other areas of the clubhouse, Pena reflected on his Connect Four glory days.

“I’m, like, 300-something and 0. Everyone stopped playing me,” said Pena, who once had a wrestling-style championship belt made to celebrate his prowess sliding checkers into vertical rows.

Odds and ends

Astros shortstop Marwin Gonzalez is dealing with a minor hamstring issue. … Porter said pregame Hector Ambriz would temporarily replace Veras as the club’s closer against the Rockies if the latter was unable to pitch. Veras threw Monday and Tuesday against Colorado. … Astros reliever Josh Fields has begun a rehab assignment at Class AAA Oklahoma City.